Bowing out: Richard Curtis to say farewell to directing at About Time premiere

Richard Curtis initially made his name co-writing television comedies (Getty Images)

Bill Nighy and Rachel McAdams are among the stars who will attend tonight's world premiere of Richard Curtis's latest film About Time as he brings his hugely successful directing career to an end.

Curtis revealed just days ago that he will bow out of directing after enchanting audiences with a series of romantic comedies, including Notting Hill and Four Weddings And A Funeral.

His latest - and last - effort will be launched at London's Somerset House and puts a time-travelling twist on the search for true love.

Domhnall Gleeson stars as Tim, who finds he has the ability to revisit the past to win the heart of Mary (McAdams), while Nighy plays his father.

The film will open open nationwide across the UK next month, although there is a limited runs of screenings from tonight.

PA